Some of the most meaningful conversations in my life have happened over coffee—iced coffee, to be exact! There’s just something about the ritual: the satisfying clink of ice, the rich aroma of espresso, and the casual yet intentional vibe of sitting across from someone. It’s in these simple moments that real connections happen. Those connections have sparked big revelations, opened doors to new opportunities, and given me the courage to step into spaces that didn’t always feel like they were built for me.
I’ve noticed something about these coffee shop chats: they’re nothing like the boardrooms and professional spaces we often aim to thrive in. While corporate spaces can feel rigid and high-stakes, coffee chats are the total opposite—informal, welcoming, and real. What amazes me is how these small, unassuming moments can lead to big career shifts and give us the confidence to use our voices in places where we might not feel we belong.
The Power of Informal Connections
When I think about the pivotal moments in my career, many of them weren’t about landing the perfect pitch in a high-stakes meeting. They were about the quieter, more personal moments: a mentor’s encouragement over a latte, a chance encounter with someone who saw potential in me, or even an iced coffee-fueled brainstorming session that reignited my passion for what I do.
These informal interactions are such a great reminder that relationships often come before opportunities. There’s a kind of magic in the authenticity of a casual chat—it builds trust and connection in ways a polished resume just can’t. These moments let us show up as our true selves—a little unpolished, curious, and ready to grow. And when we feel comfortable in those spaces, it becomes so much easier to carry that same authenticity into more formal settings.
Finding Your Voice
Walking into a room that doesn’t feel like it was made for you? Yeah, that can be pretty intimidating. Maybe it’s a boardroom where you’re the only one who looks like you, a networking event where everyone seems to know the unspoken rules, or a team meeting where your ideas keep getting brushed aside. But here’s the thing: finding your voice doesn’t usually start in those big, intimidating spaces. It starts in the places where you feel most like yourself.
For me, coffee shops have been a training ground for building confidence. They’ve been the backdrop for practicing how to articulate my goals, share my vision, and ask for what I need. Those low-pressure environments taught me that my voice matters and that people are often more willing to listen than we assume.
Bringing Coffee Shop Energy to Career Spaces
So, how do we bring that laid-back coffee shop vibe into a career setting? Here are a few things I’ve learned along the way:
Build Genuine Relationships: Just like in a coffee shop chat, focus on building authentic connections. Take time to understand the people around you—their interests, challenges, and goals. When you build relationships rooted in trust, your voice carries more weight.
Lead With Curiosity: In informal settings, we ask questions, share ideas, and explore possibilities without fear of judgment. Bring that same curiosity into the boardroom. Ask thoughtful questions and show genuine interest in others’ perspectives.
Be Authentic: Remember how easily you can be yourself over coffee? Hold onto that authenticity when you step into more formal spaces. Your unique perspective and personality are your greatest assets.
Create Your Own Table: If the room wasn’t built for you, bring your own chair. Or better yet, create a new table. Advocate for inclusive spaces where others like you can thrive. Use your voice to make it easier for the next person to feel like they belong.
The next time you sit down for a casual coffee chat, don’t forget: these moments matter. It’s not just about the caffeine or the conversation—it’s about finding the courage to step into any room and own your space, even if it wasn’t made for you. And here’s the best part: when you do, you’re not just finding your voice—you’re showing others how to find theirs too.
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